Bonus Points for Higher Level Mathematics

Points awarded:
A bonus of 25 points will be allocated to students who achieve a grade D3 or above in higher level (HL) mathematics. This means that the maximum cumulative LC points total will increase from 600 to 625 (existing maximum points plus bonus points).

Time scale:
The scheme is to be introduced for a four year pilot period commencing Leaving Certificate 2012 and will be reviewed in 2014.

Formula:

All students presenting HD3 or above in HL mathematics will have 25 points added to their score for mathematics

The six highest subject points scores will then be counted to achieve a cumulative points score, as is normal practice

The bonus points will only be relevant in cases where the subject HL mathematics (including bonus points) is scored as one of the candidate’s six best subjects for points purposes. Consequently, if HL mathematics (cumulative points score) is not among these six subjects, the bonus points will not be included in the total points score.

Date of examination:
Bonus points will be awarded during the 4 year pilot period irrespective of the year in which the examinations were taken.

Medicine:
The maximum possible adjusted points score for applicants to Medicine will increase from 560 to 565. (For all scores over 550, each 5 point band equals one extra point.) The baseline score of 480 points will still apply but can include the bonus points if HL mathematics (cumulative points) is among the best six subjects.

EU other than Irish examinations:
All EU students presenting for admission to an Irish university with a clear equivalent to HL Mathematics as one of their EU school leaving subjects will be awarded bonus points. A scoring system for GCE, International Baccalauréat and European Baccalauréat examinations will be prepared as a matter of urgency.